A Bengaluru resident was allegedly cheated of ₹4.3 lakh by a visa consultancy firm that promised him employment in the United States but instead sent him to Armenia, leaving him stranded and financially distressed.
According to police sources, the victim approached the consultancy after being assured of a lucrative overseas job opportunity in the US along with visa assistance and travel arrangements. Trusting the promises made by the agents, he reportedly paid ₹4.3 lakh towards processing fees, documentation and travel expenses.
Promised US job never materialised
Investigators said the man later discovered that he had been sent to Armenia instead of the United States. Upon reaching the foreign country, he allegedly realised there was no job arrangement as promised by the consultancy.
The victim reportedly struggled to manage accommodation and expenses while stranded abroad before eventually seeking help and returning to India.
Following his complaint, police have registered a case against the consultancy and initiated an investigation into the alleged fraud.
Rising cases of overseas job scams
Authorities say fraudulent overseas job and visa scams have been increasing, particularly targeting young professionals and job seekers eager for opportunities abroad.
Cyber and economic offence experts have repeatedly warned applicants to verify the authenticity of recruitment agencies, job offers and visa consultants before making large payments.
Officials advise candidates to check company registrations, official embassy procedures and employment contracts carefully to avoid falling victim to such scams.
Public urged to remain cautious
The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with unverified overseas recruitment firms operating in major cities like Bengaluru.
Police have urged citizens to report suspicious consultancies and avoid transferring money without proper documentation and verification.
Investigators are now examining whether more people may have been similarly deceived by the same network